Canada is moving to restrict social media access for under-16s and introduce new rules for AI chatbots, joining a growing list of countries seeking to protect young people online. The proposed legislation, however, is not as straightforward as a simple social media ban.
Safe Social Media Act Details
The Safe Social Media Act, introduced earlier this month by Culture Minister Marc Miller, would prevent children under 16 from holding accounts on certain social media platforms — until those platforms can prove to a new regulator that they’re safe for kids. If the bill becomes law, there could initially be a period in which under-16 users are barred from some major social media platforms. Later, companies could apply for exemptions that would allow younger users back onto their services if they meet child-safety standards. Those standards have not yet been written.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Social media companies covered by the law would have to prevent children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts. Companies that fail to comply could face penalties of up to $10 million, or three per cent of global revenue, whichever is greater.
Exemptions and Standards
Platforms could apply to a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada to be exempted. For now, the government has not said what would count as adequate protection. Possible measures could include stronger moderation, safer recommendation systems, parental controls, limits on addictive design features and faster removal of harmful content.
Timeline for Implementation
Realistically, an initial ban for under-16s could come in September to December, based on the current schedules in parliament. But the language used in the bill is suitably vague to allow for flexibility. The bill must first pass the House of Commons and Senate before becoming law. After debate at second reading, it would head to a committee for detailed study, before final votes in both chambers. The exact timing will depend on how quickly Parliament moves, and whether the legislation faces significant opposition or amendments.
The new Digital Safety Commission of Canada also needs to get up and running. This could take up to about 18 months to create. The commission would be responsible for enforcing the law, handling complaints and developing many of the detailed rules. Once established, it would develop child-safety standards and a process allowing social media platforms that satisfy those standards to potentially regain access to under-16 users. Those that do not would remain subject to the restriction.
AI Chatbots and Other Rules
AI chatbots, unlike social media platforms, would not face an account ban for under-16s, though they would not escape child-safety obligations entirely. The legislation, Bill C-34, would effectively take a carrot-and-stick approach to tech companies. The stick is the age restriction; the carrot is the exemption.
Which Platforms Would Be Affected?
Would platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat be included? It’s very likely. The bill covers major social media platforms, though the exact list will be determined by regulations.
